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There are different Linux distros (distributions) that you can install on your computer, including Kali Linux. It’s one of the most popular options for highly experienced users, but is it a useful operating system for the average user?
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Is Kali Linux a Good OS for Daily Use?
Kali Linux is an open-source Linux distro that you can use as the operating system for your computer. However, it was developed for pen-testing and security auditing, meaning it’s not optimized for normal daily use. It’s explicitly designed to simulate a cyber attack or check for vulnerabilities within a system.
You might have heard about Kali Linux being the preferred operating system of hackers. That’s because the developers made core changes to the platform to accommodate such tasks.
An operating system like Windows is optimized for enhanced user experience. The interface is highly user-friendly, and you can easily navigate it with only your mouse. On the other hand, Kali is optimized for functionality, and you may find yourself having to use text-based commands to get basic things done.
Aside from this, there are a few other reasons why Kali Linux isn’t a good operating system for daily use. Let’s discuss some of the biggest challenges you might face when using Kali Linux for your computer.
1. Kali Linux Has a Limited Number of General-Purpose Programs
Since Kali is a pen-testing operating system, security is paramount. Software can only be downloaded from trusted sources, which are minimal. This means the programs you can use for Kali will be limited, and you might not find many that are helpful for daily tasks.
Many of the programs we use every day may cause this operating system to break. Even if you could get all the trusted programs that run on Kali, you might still find them challenging because most of these programs require advanced knowledge and technical know-how.
One thing that makes Kali Linux more secure is its small, trusted community. The number of Kali users is limited, so if you use this as your operating system, it’s unlikely that you’ll find someone who developed a Kali-compatible program you need for your tasks.
2. Linux, in General, Can Be Complicated
Kali Linux may be an open-source project, but changing the core of this Linux distro to make it suitable for daily use may be challenging even for highly experienced users. The seemingly simple task of adding files to an existing program without going through testing from the development team can be risky for most people.
Aside from the unique capabilities of Kali, Linux, in general, is more complicated than macOS or Windows. Even advanced macOS or Windows users will need time to learn how to use Linux efficiently. Even the most user-friendly Linux distro has a steep learning curve, especially for someone accustomed to user-friendly operating systems.
If you don’t have experience with Linux (any of the available distros), it won’t be easy to start using Kali immediately. The lack of trusted software sources and support, program updates, and software testing for Kali only add to the complexity of using it as your operating system.
3. Kali Linux Has Limited Hardware Compatibility
Hardware compatibility may also be an issue for people who want to use Kali as their operating system. Since the development team intentionally kept the community small, it became difficult to keep up with all hardware releases.
Despite the team’s effort to make the system compatible with every component, some may not work well with Kali. Some issues you may encounter when using incompatible hardware include performance capacity, hardware detection, and driver installation.
While using Kali with different hardware combinations is still possible, your options will be limited. Instead of building a system capable of handling your daily tasks, you’ll be picking computer parts based on what is compatible with Kali Linux.
Best Linux Distro (Distribution) for Daily Use
Kali Linux isn’t an excellent operating system for daily use, but there are other Linux distros that you can use for your computer. Some are user-friendly, while others make it easier for macOS and Windows users to move to Linux.
Let’s talk about alternative Linux distros you can use as your operating system.
1. Ubuntu – The Mainstream Linux Distro
Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distros you can use for your computer. It has the biggest community, which can provide you with all the support you need. This distro is why some people prefer to use Linux OS instead of macOS or Windows.
If you decide to use Ubuntu, you’ll have to choose from various flavors, including Xubuntu, Kubuntu, Lubuntu, and other Debian-based Linux distros. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages, making them perfect for different setups and tasks.
This OS won’t feel very different because of the wide range of program utilities you can use for your daily tasks. Aside from this, it’ll also be easy for you to get the updates you need for the programs you’re using, and the testing is faster because of its massive community.
It’s much easier to use than other Linux distros, making it a great choice even for new users. However, if you’re moving from macOS or Windows to Linux, there’ll still be a steep learning curve that you need to go through to use this distro efficiently.
2. Mint – Ubuntu/Windows Hybrid Distro
Mint Linux is an Ubuntu-based Linux distro that allows it to take advantage of Ubuntu’s massive community, trusted program sources, updates, and compatibility. It’s a lightweight operating system that only requires at least 512MB of RAM, allowing you to get more out of older systems with limited resources.
The best thing about Mint Linux is that it incorporates the design elements of Windows, making it easier for Windows users to transition to Linux. The updates are also released faster, making your Linux system more secure than other operating systems.
If you want to change the operating system you’re using, Mint Linux will help reduce the learning curve. You’ll be using a somewhat familiar system and still taking advantage of all the benefits of Linux.
3. Manjaro – Computer Enthusiast’s Distro
If you’re already familiar with Linux and switch components regularly, Manjaro is the best distro for you. It automatically detects the hardware you’re using, making it easier to install the drivers you need for them to work properly.
Manjaro is a stable distro that can provide an excellent operating system without the complexities you’ll experience when using Kali Linux. It doesn’t even have high system requirements, making it the perfect OS for older systems.
You can choose from different Manjaro flavors, which all have different advantages and disadvantages. However, if you want to use a stable release, choose from among these three official flavors:
- KDE Plasma
- XFCE
- GNOME
The community has tested a few other flavors that work well. However, these three are the ones the official development team has tested. They’ll provide you with the best user experience possible.
Conclusion
While Kali is a popular Linux distro, you can’t use it as a normal OS as it has undergone several core changes to optimize it for functionality. Consider using another Linux distro if you want a better user experience or other features that make it suitable for daily use.